North Lincolnshire-based dressage and event rider Holly Woodhead has returned from the European Pony Championship in Belgium – finishing best of the Brits in the dressage squad.

Holly (15) was nominated simultaneously for both the pony dressage and eventing teams but in the end after much deliberation rode Languard 4 in the dressage competition and held the reserve spot in the eventing team.

Holly is based at Weelsby Park, near Grimsby and is sponsored by Sue Carson Saddles, well known for producing a collection of distinctive saddles that provide outstanding performance at all levels.

Said Holly: “It has been my biggest achievement so far to be chosen for both teams at the Europeans. I believe this is the first time anyone has done this, which is incredible. It is such a huge boost to be regarded as good enough to compete in either discipline.”

The British Pony Team finished in fifth place with Holly placed best Brit when claiming 13th place as part of the team competition. Holly then went on to be placed top Brit again in the Individual competition finishing in 10^th place with 67.47% and secured 11^th place in the Freestyle to Music.

Known as Dum Dum, the 11-year-old bay gelding, Languard 4, is an experienced dressage pony, competing in the European Championships in 2008 with Holly’s sister Amy.

Said Holly: “Dum Dum worked really hard, he started off a bit lazy with the additional heat, but quickly settled in and improved as the competition went on.

“I had a brilliant time in Belgium, gaining valuable experience when competing at such a high level.”

Holly has enjoyed a fantastic season on both ponies and horses, making her mark in dressage and eventing. Further triumphs involve qualifying for the KBIS Insurance JRN Championships at Weston Park.

For further information contact Sue Carson Saddles on 01629 540343 or visit www.suecarsonsaddles.co.uk.

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